Whether traversing rugged landscapes or after-dark hunting expeditions, off-roading combines adventure and exhilaration with safety. A high-performing light bar is essential for seeing obstacles and hazards in any environment. In this article, we’ll review important factors to consider when choosing an off-road light bar.
Shape & Number Of Rows
For starters, light bars can come in many shapes and sizes. They can be straight or curved, and can be made up of single, double, or triple rows of lights. The shape of your bar will depend on your aesthetic preferences and unique lighting needs. The most important part is finding a light bar that can pierce the darkness, illuminating the road and surroundings for improved visibility.
Beam Pattern
The beam pattern of a light bar can significantly affect your off-roading experience. It is crucial to have a bright light that covers a large area to help you see any obstacles on your path. The advantages of using light bars for off-roading are far more significant than the disadvantages. They offer essential safety and an improved experience and add a touch of adventure-ready style to your ride. It’s critical to select a light pattern that fits your needs.
Spot Beam Patterns are ideal for long-distance illumination. It has a narrower focus that can reach several miles but will sacrifice side illumination. This type of pattern is perfect for off-road driving, emergency response, and construction work.
Flood Beam Patterns emit a broad, diffused light that can cover a wide area. It’s perfect for general lighting, such as campsites and work areas.
Combo Beam Patterns are light patterns that combine the benefits of spot and flood patterns. It’s great for off-roading and works well as a daytime running light.
Additionally, some LED lights change the beam pattern and power level based on speed. Besides the beam pattern, you should consider a few other things when choosing a light bar.
Brightness
First, you need to determine the amount of power you need. Then, you’ll need to consider brightness. Light bars are usually rated by their lumen count, which measures how much light they emit. The brightness of a light is generally proportional to the lumens it emits. Therefore, a higher lumen rating indicates a brighter light.
It can be easy to get swept up in finding the brightest lights, but it’s essential to determine how you will use them and what features you need. More glowing lights are typically more expensive, so you’ll want to ensure you get the brightness you need for your off-roading adventures.
Color Temperature
Another important consideration is the color of the light. You can find LED light bars in various colors, including white, yellow, and amber. Choosing the right color temperature for your light bar can significantly affect how well it performs. You’ll want to select a color close to the temperature and climate of your driving environment. It will help you see better and make it easier to navigate the terrain. A common choice is 5000 Kelvin, which is the closest to pure white without any yellow or blue tint.
Other light colors include amber, green, and multi-color. Amber and green lights are great for off-roading because they offer more visibility in dusty, muddy, or snowy conditions. In addition, they can help you stand out from other drivers. Some people also use them for hunting or fishing because they attract less attention from wildlife.
Durability
You’ll also want to consider the durability of your LED light bars. Light bars can be subject to extreme conditions while off-roading, including dust, mud, water, and other debris. For this reason, selecting a model that can withstand these harsh environments is essential. One way to do this is to look for a model with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating above 65. It indicates that the LED lights are completely dustproof and can be submerged in water for 30 minutes without damage.
Mounting
When it comes to mounting a light bar on your truck, there are several options available. One of the most common is to mount it above the windshield. This location is a good choice because it maximizes the amount of light that can be projected. In addition, it is also a safe place to mount a light bar because it will be out of the driver’s eyes’ way.
Another option is to mount a light bar on your truck’s grille. This is a popular location because it can provide a lot of light and look stylish. Lastly, you can mount a light bar on your bumper. It will give you more coverage but may not be as bright as other locations.
Finally, a quality wiring harness is essential to ensure your lights operate safely and efficiently. It will prevent short circuits and ensure your lights are always appropriately powered. KC produces several lighting harnesses that can be used with off-road lights, so you’re sure to find the right one for your vehicle.
Conclusion
When shopping for a light bar, it is essential to consider the size, color, and other features. For example, choose a light bar with a high protection rating and weatherproofing. Moreover, it would help if you considered the beam pattern and color temperature. Remember, a light bar with a spot beam pattern can reach far distances and is ideal for on-road driving, while a flood beam can cover a wider area nearby and is better for off-roading. Similarly, an amber light can perform better in certain conditions because it cuts through airborne dust and dirt more effectively than a white light. In conclusion, be sure to select a light bar that fits your specific off-roading needs and make sure it is designed for your vehicle and adventure-type.
